Fugitive grandma made an Ocala stop

Tuesday

Apr 17, 2018 at 3:41 PMApr 18, 2018 at 8:59 AM

Woman, 56, wanted in connection with two deaths, was caught on camera at the Hilton on SR 200 at Interstate 75

By The Associated Press

The Minnesota woman who is wanted in connection with her husband's death and the death of a woman in Fort Myers Beach apparently made a stop in Ocala at some point during her run from the law, authorities say.

Lois Riess, 56, of Bloomberg Prairie, Minnesota, is wanted for the March slaying of her husband, David, in Minnesota.

She also is wanted in connection with the death of Pamela Hutchinson, 59. Surveillance video shows Riess talking to Hutchinson on April 5 at the Smokin' Oyster Brewery in Fort Myers Beach.

Authorities aren't aware of any connection between the two women, but they believe Riess shot and killed Hutchinson to assume her identity.

Authorities say she stole Hutchinson's car, which has been seen in Louisiana, Texas — and at the Ocala Hilton on State Road 200 near Interstate 75, according to an account in the Naples Daily News.

Authorities don’t say when Riess supposedly was at the Hilton. But surveillance video shows her at the front counter and the stolen car in the parking lot.

Authorities say Riess may have targeted Hutchinson because the two women looked alike.

"Riess' mode of operation is to befriend women who resemble her and steal their identity," Marceno said. "U.S. Marshals are actively involved in a national search for this dangerous fugitive. Riess is considered armed and dangerous and should not be approached if located."

Dodge County (Minnesota) Sheriff Scott Rose said authorities believe the same gun was used in both killings.

Anyone who sees Riess is urged to call 911, and anyone with information on her whereabouts is urged to call the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension or Florida authorities.